Payment card industry standards (PCI DSS)

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of rules designed to protect credit and debit card information from theft and fraud. Businesses that handle card payments must follow these standards to secure data by implementing measures like encrypting data, maintaining secure networks, restricting access, regularly monitoring systems, and maintaining security policies. The goal is to ensure that cardholder information remains confidential and safe throughout all transaction processes, reducing the risk of security breaches and identity theft.